Lesotho Strengthens Global Migration Cooperation at International Forum in New York

Lesotho has renewed its commitment to safe, orderly and regular migration at the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) held in New York City, marking a significant step in the country’s engagement with global migration governance. The country used the platform to highlight its progress in managing migration challenges while expanding international partnerships that benefit Basotho workers abroad. The statement was delivered by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Tseliso Mokhosi, who emphasized that migration must be guided by dignity, opportunity and fairness. His address reflected Lesotho’s growing focus on improving labour mobility systems and protecting migrant workers. The forum brought together member states to assess progress on the Global Compact for Migration and strengthen cooperation on shared challenges.

Lesotho’s participation in the International Migration Review Forum highlighted its efforts to improve migration governance systems and reduce vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers. Minister Mokhosi noted that the country has made progress in combating human trafficking through stronger legal frameworks and better coordination between institutions. He also outlined how Lesotho has been working closely with South Africa and several Gulf countries to improve labour mobility arrangements. These partnerships aim to create safer migration pathways for Basotho seeking employment abroad while ensuring fair working conditions. The government has placed strong emphasis on ethical recruitment practices and the protection of citizens working outside the country.

A key theme of Lesotho’s statement was that migration should not be forced by poverty, unemployment or environmental pressures. Minister Mokhosi stressed that people should move by choice, not necessity driven by hardship. This position aligns with broader international efforts to address the root causes of irregular migration through development, job creation and climate resilience. Lesotho has been working to strengthen domestic employment opportunities while also expanding legal migration channels for its workforce. The government believes that balanced migration policy can reduce risks while maximizing economic benefits for both sending and receiving countries.

On the sidelines of the forum, Lesotho held important bilateral discussions with several countries to deepen cooperation on labour and economic development. One of the most significant outcomes was an agreement with Qatar to fast-track a bilateral labour agreement that will regulate the employment of Basotho workers in that country. Both sides also explored opportunities to expand cooperation in tourism, healthcare, technology and logistics sectors. Qatar expressed interest in Lesotho’s water-sector development projects, which are seen as important for regional sustainability and investment. The discussions also included potential job opportunities for Basotho in Qatar’s growing sports and mega-events industry, which continues to expand due to international sporting commitments.

Lesotho also engaged in high-level meetings with the United Arab Emirates, Germany and the Kyrgyz Republic to strengthen labour migration cooperation. These discussions focused on ethical recruitment systems, improved protection for migrant workers and expanded overseas employment opportunities. The government is seeking to ensure that Basotho workers are not exposed to exploitation and that their rights are protected in destination countries. Partnerships with these countries are expected to create structured employment pathways that reduce reliance on informal migration channels. The talks also highlighted the importance of skills development and training to prepare Basotho workers for international labour markets.

The government has positioned migration as a key part of its broader development strategy, linking it to economic growth and human capital development. Officials believe that well-managed migration can contribute to poverty reduction through remittances, skills transfer and international experience gained by workers abroad. At the same time, Lesotho continues to emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, especially women and young workers who are often at higher risk during migration processes. Strengthening cooperation with international partners is seen as essential for achieving these goals. The country’s engagement at the forum reflects its intention to align national policies with global standards on migration governance.

Lesotho’s participation at the International Migration Review Forum has reinforced its commitment to building safer and more structured migration systems while expanding opportunities for its citizens abroad. Through new agreements and strengthened partnerships, the country aims to ensure that migration becomes a tool for development rather than a response to hardship. The leadership of Minister Tseliso Mokhosi has played a central role in advancing these discussions and positioning Lesotho as an active participant in global migration policy. As negotiations with Qatar and other countries continue, expectations remain high for improved labour mobility frameworks that benefit Basotho workers. The outcomes of these engagements are likely to shape Lesotho’s migration policies and international labour relations in the years ahead.